Even though it would not seem like it with the weather, it is May. And that means that those late planters are getting out into their gardens and getting flowers and vegetables in the ground. We all know growing your own produce is usually less expensive and better for you to eat. But if you don't plan well for your gardening activities, you could end up with back pain.
- Position yourself correctly. If you are sitting, you should have both legs bent with on in front and one in back. For a photo of this position, click here.
- Try standing and lunging. Sitting can be more painful for people with hip or lower back problems. So lunge and rest one elbow on the forward knee. Click here for a photo.
- Contract your gluteal muscles when standing back up. Contracting your butt muscles can keep you from using your lower back muscles by default.
- Stretch. You can find 12 options on stretching for gardeners by clicking here.
- Take frequent breaks. This will help not only when it comes to resting or stretching your fatigued muscles, but also will help you when the weather does warm and breaks are how you keep cool.